India’s humiliating 46-all out collapse in the first Test against New Zealand has sparked severe criticism from former cricketer Manoj Tiwary. Tiwary lambasted the team’s selection and decision-making, particularly the bizarre choice to bat despite a rain-washed day.
Tiwary questioned the logic behind captain Rohit Sharma’s decision, emphasizing that common sense should have prevailed. He argued that the team should have opted for three pacers and given more overs to Ravichandran Ashwin, who has over 500 Test wickets.
Tiwary also criticized coach Gautam Gambhir for failing to guide Sharma in his selection process. He pointed out that Sharma himself admitted to misreading the pitch, which could have been avoided with proper guidance.
“Good captains make mistakes, but the coach’s role is crucial in providing constant guidance,” Tiwary said. “I don’t know why that didn’t happen.”
Tiwary expressed concern about the impact on pacer Akash Deep, who was dropped from the XI after an impressive performance in the Bangladesh series. He suggested that Deep’s confidence may have been shattered by the decision.
With two Tests remaining in the series, Tiwary urged India to make a comeback. He emphasized the need for better decision-making and a more balanced approach to team selection.
